Full-Day Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this guided PRIVATE tour you’ll experience Vietnam’s rich tapestry of history, culture and lifestyles with a local guide. We’ll venture to ‘every corner’ of Ho Chi Minh City, soaking up the city’s iconic French colonial architecture and its bustling local markets.
This tour includes visits to...
• The City’s Biggest Flower Market
• The Beautiful Thien Hau Temple
• The Former CIA Building
• The War Remnants Museum
• The Independence Palace
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Opera House and City Hall
• Vietnamese Coffee
Available options
Pickup From City Centre
Deluxe<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Vietnamese Set Menu Hot Lunch<br/>Pickup & Drop-off Included<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
Pickup From Hiep Phuoc Port
Deluxe<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Vietnamese Set Menu Hot Lunch<br/>Return Trip - Hiep Phuoc Port<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
Pickup From Nha Rong Port
Deluxe<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Vietnamese Set Menu Hot Lunch<br/>Return Trip From Nha Rong Port<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
Pickup From Phu My Port
Quality Guaranteed <br/>Duration: 11 hours<br/>8-Course Set Menu Hot Lunch<br/>Return Trip From Phu My Port<br/>Air-conditioned Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Centrally-located hotel pick-up & drop-off
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch ( Vietnamese Set Menu)
Vietnamese Coffee
Entrance Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Lets Go!
We start our great day by heading for a beautiful stroll through the pretty Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, the biggest in Ho Chi Minh City! You’ll get to view the daily life of the city’s local traders as you are dazzled by the scents and kaleidoscope of colors while we navigate through the narrow winding streets of the market before we explore the Saigon Chinatown.
2
Stop 2
Gaze At Cholon - Chinatown Saigon
Cholon, which directly translates to “Big Market”, was first established in the late 1700’s when a large number of Hoa, an ethnic Chinese minority residing in Vietnam. Thien Hau is widely considered the most beautiful temple in the area and really worth paying a visit! After visiting this legendary temple, we will head to Secret Weapon Cellar.
3
Secret Saigon Underground
The NLF dug numerous secret cellars in the heart of Saigon to store weapons and explosives brought from rural bases such as Cu Chi for fighting against the South Government, particularly the 1968 Tet Offensive. Early in 1967 the house’s owner, Trần Văn Lai, dug two cellars underneath the house to store pistols, rifles, grenades and over 350kg of TNT were transported there in hollowed-out boxes and specially-adapted wickerwork baskets and plant pots. After visiting this historic place, we will head to the memorial of Thich Quang Duc who shocked the world by burning himself to death in 1963.
4
Stop 4
Next we will head back to the city center to visit the fascinating War Remnants Museum. This will be an emotionally hard-hitting experience given the graphic content of the museum. Yet, it will be a valuable stop for anybody wishing to learn more about different perspectives surrounding the Vietnam War and its continuing effects today.
5
Stop 5
Stop For A Tasty Local Lunch
After the museum, we’ll take a well earned rest and enjoy a tasty Vietnamese Set Menu Lunch at an authentic restaurant. After we’ve fueled up on these delicious local dishes, it’s off to our first stop of the afternoon which will be the Reunification Palace. Here you’ll learn all about its important place in Vietnamese history.
6
Stop 6
An Afternoon Of Amazing Architecture
Our next stop will be the famous Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. Your knowledgeable guide will explain all the history behind these two incredible buildings. Your guide will show you the historic CIA building where one of the last U.S Helicopters flew out of Saigon in 1975. Next, we’ll walk you to visit more HCMC highlights including the Opera House, Hotel Continental, Rex Hotel and City Hall as well as viewing the mighty Bitexco.
In order to wrap up a wonderful day, we recommend you to come up to Rex Hotel rooftop for the legendary “Five O’clock Follies” cocktail or simply have a cup of coffee or tea at the Coffee Apartment. After the last stop we will get you safely back to your hotel in the comfort of our private vehicle. Don’t forget to give a hug to your lovely guide and ask for recommendations from our local expert!
What's not included
Gratuities
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
24 reviews
5★
24
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair access is available with a surcharge. Please contact us in advance before booking.
Infant seat is available with a surcharge. Please contact us in advance before booking.
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.
Top Attractions
War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Cu Chi Tunnels
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Historical
Half-day tour
Moderate (tour prices vary)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.
Observation Deck
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Com Tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
Boat tours in the Mekong Delta
Beach relaxation in Vung Tau
Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum
Exploring local markets and temples
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Bargain for better prices at markets
Getting there
By air
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Saigon Railway Station
By bus
Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District 1
District 3
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 7
Phu Nhuan District
Day trips
Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
- Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
